About The Gallery

A historic Sanford gallery, open and evolving again — with artists, collectors, classes, events, and new reasons to visit First Street.

Gallery On First honors the creative legacy of the historic Hotchkiss Building while embracing an exciting new chapter under the ownership of Aurore and Howard Marks.

Today, the gallery is more than a place to view art—it’s a creative destination where artists work, ideas are shared, and the community gathers. Visitors will discover working studio artists, thoughtfully curated folk art, rotating exhibitions, hands-on classes, exhibition openings, and conversations that keep the gallery connected to the creative spirit of downtown Sanford.

Every visit offers something new, inviting collectors, art enthusiasts, and curious visitors alike to experience a gallery that is continually evolving while honoring the history that makes it unique.

The Hotchkiss Building rises after Sanford’s great fire

The gallery legacy takes root on First Avenue

Gallery On First begins its next chapter

From historic walls to new work,Gallery On First continues to evolve.

The Hotchkiss Building has held many lives: downtown landmark, gathering place, home for artists, and destination for people who care about objects with meaning. Today, Gallery On First continues that story through exhibitions, studio artists, folk art, classes, and community events — creating a space where history is present, but never still.

Collected With Meaning

Folk art, regional work, studio practice, and special exhibitions come together in a gallery shaped by story, texture, color, and hand.

Artists In Residence

Working studio artists bring movement and presence to the gallery, making each visit feel different from the last.

Rozzie Marks Gallery Rental

Host your next event in one of downtown Sanford’s most unique and inspiring venues. Named in honor of the building owner’s mother, the Rozzie Marks Gallery is an intimate guest-artist gallery available for short-term rentals, making it the perfect setting for meetings, receptions, workshops, private celebrations, and art exhibitions.

Located within Gallery on First, the Rozzie Marks Gallery is surrounded by the work of resident fine artists specializing in contemporary folk art from Florida and the Deep South. The creative atmosphere, combined with the character of the historic Hotchkiss Building, offers a memorable backdrop for any gathering. Built more than a century ago, the building reflects the rich history and charm of historic downtown Sanford.

Your guests will appreciate the gallery’s convenient location in the heart of downtown, just a short walk from award-winning restaurants, breweries, cafés, boutiques, and local shops. Whether planning a business event, celebrating a special occasion, or showcasing artwork, the Rozzie Marks Gallery provides a distinctive space where art, history, and community come together.

Perfect for:

Contact us to learn about availability, rental rates, and how the Rozzie Marks Gallery can help make your event unforgettable.

VISIT Gallery on First

Experience the work in person, meet the artists, and see what is new inside the Hotchkiss Building.

Plan Your Visit

A living gallery,shaped by artists, collectors, and community.

Gallery On First is kept active by the people who move through it every day: studio artists, visiting artists, collectors, students, event guests, and the team welcoming people in from First Street.

Whether someone is attending an opening, asking about a piece, joining a class, or discovering the gallery for the first time, the experience is meant to feel thoughtful, personal, and alive.

Meet The Artists